LIVING THE LIFE. Joshua 14 The first five verses of this chapter serve as an introduction to how the land was distributed among the twelve tribes of Israel. Eleazar the high priest was the official responsible for overseeing the casting of lots. This shows us that the land division was God’s decision, not based on greed or convenience. No favoritism was shown, except for Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh on the east side of the Jordan River. Additionally, Joshua and Caleb were given a specific place.
God determined the exact area each tribe should occupy. Each tribe was then responsible for applying the principles they had learned through united warfare. Every tribe was to take possession of what God had given it and deal with those who previously possessed it in the way God intended. Similarly, when we refuse to accept our lot in life, we don’t possess what God has for us.
Many people feel unhappy with their circumstances. Some are lonely because they are disillusioned, their early hopes shattered. Ill health follows them, and they seem unable to do what they want. Others have had a marriage they hoped would last a lifetime, but now they find themselves in a broken home with problems beyond their control. Then some have lost their partner, are left with children, and feel crushed and utterly alone. In each of these cases, the temptation to resent God is strong.